Body Image Therapy in Essendon & Moonee Ponds
Body image concerns can affect the way a person thinks, feels and behaves in relation to their appearance. Psychologists consulting at The Victorian Psychology Clinic provide therapy for body image concerns and body dysmorphia for adolescents and adults in Essendon, Moonee Ponds and via telehealth.
Body image concerns may involve distress related to appearance, self-criticism, shame, comparison, or a preoccupation with perceived flaws. For some people, body image concerns are linked to low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, perfectionism or disordered eating behaviours.
Body Dysmorphic Disorder, or BDD, involves an intense preoccupation with perceived flaws in appearance that may be minor or not noticeable to others, but which cause significant distress and can interfere with daily life.
Psychologists consulting at VPC take a compassionate, collaborative and individualised approach to support. Where appropriate, they may work alongside general practitioners, psychiatrists and other treating professionals involved in a person’s care.
Signs and Symptoms of Body Image concerns and Body Dysmorphia
Body image concerns can show up in different ways, and may include:
- ongoing self-criticism about appearance
- feeling dissatisfied or distressed about weight, shape, skin or other aspects of appearance
- comparing yourself to others, including on social media
- avoiding mirrors, photos or certain clothing
- withdrawing from social situations because of appearance concerns
- tying self-worth to weight, shape or attractiveness
- engaging in restrictive eating, excessive exercise or other behaviours aimed at changing appearance
Body Dysmorphic Disorder is more than general dissatisfaction with appearance. It involves a persistent preoccupation with perceived flaws in appearance, alongside significant distress or interference in daily life. This may include:
- focusing intensely on one or more perceived flaws that others may not notice
- frequent mirror checking or avoiding mirrors entirely
- excessive grooming, skin picking or reassurance seeking
- comparing appearance with others
- avoiding social situations because of fear of judgement
- spending a significant amount of time thinking about or trying to hide the perceived flaw
BDD is not about vanity. It is a mental health condition that can occur alongside anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive traits, or difficulties with self-esteem.
Treatment for Body Image Concerns and Body Dysmorphia
Support for body image concerns and body dysmorphia often involves psychological therapy aimed at reducing distress, challenging unhelpful patterns of thinking and helping people build a healthier and more balanced relationship with their body and appearance.
Treatment is tailored to the individual and may focus on understanding the factors contributing to body image distress, reducing avoidance and compulsive behaviours, managing shame and self-criticism, improving self-esteem, and developing more flexible and compassionate ways of relating to appearance.
Psychologists consulting at VPC may draw on evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Exposure and Response Prevention, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, schema therapy, mindfulness-based strategies and compassion-focused approaches. Where body image concerns are linked with eating difficulties or broader emotional concerns, support may also involve collaboration with other treating professionals.
Psychologists consulting at VPC take a thoughtful and individualised approach, recognising that body image concerns and body dysmorphia can affect people in different ways and that recovery is not the same for everyone.
How we can support you
At VPC, psychologists provide a safe, respectful and non-judgemental space for people experiencing body image concerns and body dysmorphia. Therapy can support clients to better understand their experiences, reduce distress and work towards meaningful change over time.
Therapy may help with:
- understanding the thoughts and beliefs that contribute to body image distress
- reducing compulsive behaviours and avoidance patterns
- managing shame, anxiety and self-criticism
- developing a more balanced and compassionate perspective on appearance
- building self-worth that is not solely tied to looks
- improving day-to-day functioning and confidence in social situations
If you or someone you know is struggling with body image concerns or BDD, you are welcome to contact VPC to discuss support options A number of psychologists consulting at VPC work with body image concerns and BDD. To learn, more please visit our Psychologists page for clinician details..
